Tear film status in glaucoma patients

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of ocular surface disease symptoms and the state of the tear film among patients with glaucoma who are receiving topical intraocular pressure lowering monotherapy. 62 responders were divided in 2 groups: 32 glaucoma patients and 30 healthy individuals. Tear film break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer 1 testing and ocular surface disease questionnaire were performed in both groups. 50% glaucoma patients and 25% control group participants had dry eye symptoms. Advanced disorder in TBUT was found in seven 21.9% glaucoma patients and was not found in the control group. Basal tear secretion measured by Schirmer 1 testing was found reduced in 87% of glaucoma patients and in 16.7% control group patients. Glaucoma patients on topical intraocular pressure lowering monotherapy showed a significantly higher prevalence of ocular surface disease symptoms, significantly reduced basal tear secretion and destabilisation of tear film in comparison with healthy volunteers.